Changes being considered to Nova Scotia's proposed e-cigarette law

CP

HALIFAX - The Nova Scotia government signalled it's having some second thoughts about parts of legislation that would regulate the use and sale of e-cigarettes.

Premier Stephen McNeil said Tuesday that the government is considering amending a bill that proposes to ban flavoured juice in e-cigarettes following testimony from a number of ex-smokers who say the devices helped them quit.

McNeil said he was moved by testimonials from many people who appeared before a legislature committee Monday and a departmental review of the submissions will consider potential changes to the proposed law.

"I think we need to listen to that, recognize that and put that in the context of the entire piece of legislation and determine whether or not there are changes," said McNeil.

He added that he thinks anything that helps cut the consumption of tobacco is "a good thing."

Health Minister Leo Glavine said any changes would likely involve the ban on flavoured juice — and not a prohibition on the use of e-cigarettes and water pipes in indoor public places.

Glavine said an amendment proposed by the NDP to remove an exemption for menthol-flavoured tobacco would also be considered. The government previously said menthol would be exempt because it is a long-standing tobacco product.

He said he expects any amendments would come before the legislature as early as Thursday.

Other changes to the Smoke Free Places and Tobacco Access acts would prohibit stores from selling e-cigarettes to those under 19 and retailers would also not be allowed to display, advertise or promote the devices, effectively treating them like regular cigarettes.